Rolling swim start

Rolling Swim Start at IRONMAN Austria-Kärnten

As part of IRONMAN ongoing race development and improvements, the IRONMAN Austria-Kärnten in Klagenfurt will be using a “Rolling Swim Start”.

This method of start has been introduced into several IRONMAN events across the globe with positive feedback and outcomes.

What is a rolling start?

Athletes will line up according to their realistic (!) predicted swim time (self-seeding) and every five seconds, we will send out ten athletes. It will take approximately 20 minutes to get the entire field across the swim start line.

In effect, this will create a “time trial” dynamic for the race and for the determination of the final results.

How does a rolling start work?

In the morning you have the opportunity to check your bike and your transition bags. After your final preparations in the transition area you are going to the swim start at the “Strandbad Klagenfurt”. There you will have the possibility to warm up. Embark in time for the pre-start demarcated. Go to the box according to your estimated swim time. The posted signs and our volunteers show you the designated areas.

You don’t have to tell us your estimated swimming time in advance. But please note that it is your personal advantage if you file you neither too fast nor too slow. So you avoid being passed by other athletes.
Your time begins to run when you walk over the timing mat. It’s directly in front of the water. Whether you start at 6:50 am or at 7:10 am, you always have 2:20 hours for the swimming competition.

Please note once again:
The predicted swim time does not have to be communicated to the race officials in advance.

Why change to a rolling start?

It is part of the IRONMAN Global Swim Smart initiative aimed at increasing safety and reducing anxiety
in the swim.

It allows athletes to swim at their own ability and improves the overall swim experience

It leads to faster swim times

It defuses the drafting problem on the bike course

Do moderate swimmers have any advantage by starting in the front part of the field?

No, it is quite the contrary. If a moderate swimmer starts in the front part of the field, she/he will be passed by hundreds of fast swimmers which poses a needless risk for all involved parties. The cut-offs stay the same (2h 20min swim) and all athletes with a finishing time of more than cut-off time do not appear in the results list.

PLEASE BE HONEST TO YOURSELF AND LINE UP ACCORDING TO YOUR REALISTIC EXPECTED SWIM TIME!

Only in this way can the smooth and secure flow mainly at ensuring equal opportunities for all athletes!